adj
Uncommon
chic
sheek
Chic (adj) means Elegant and fashionable in a stylish, effortless way. Example: “She walked in wearing a chic black dress that turned heads.”
adj
1
Elegant and fashionable in a stylish, effortless way.
"She walked in wearing a chic black dress that turned heads."
"The new café has a chic, minimalist interior."
noun
1
Stylishness or fashionable elegance.
"The boutique is known for its understated Parisian chic."
How to use chic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishStylish and fashionable, usually in an effortless, tasteful way rather than flashy.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "cheek" or "chick" — chic is pronounced "sheek."
Easily confused with
Common pairings
effortlessly chic
chic and stylish
urban chic
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Word forms
- Plural
- chics
- Comparative
- chicer, more chic
- Superlative
- chicest, most chic
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She walked in wearing a _____ black dress that turned heads.
Etymology
Borrowed from French chic ("elegant"), which most likely comes from German Schick, meaning a tasteful, polished appearance.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for chic
See all rhymes for chic →Frequently asked questions
What does “chic” mean?
The word “chic” means elegant and fashionable in a stylish, effortless way. In plain terms, stylish and fashionable, usually in an effortless, tasteful way rather than flashy.
How do you pronounce “chic”?
“Chic” is pronounced sheek (/ʃik/ in IPA).
How do you use “chic” in a sentence?
Here is “chic” used in a sentence: “She walked in wearing a chic black dress that turned heads.”
What is the opposite of “chic”?
The opposite of “chic” — its antonyms — are dowdy, inelegant, unelegant, unchic and unfashionable.
What part of speech is “chic”?
Depending on how it is used, “chic” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “chic” come from?
The word “chic” comes from French. Borrowed from French chic ("elegant"), which most likely comes from German Schick, meaning a tasteful, polished appearance.
Is “chic” a common word?
“Chic” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “chic” have?
“Chic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: elegant and fashionable in a stylish, effortless way.
What is the difference between chic and stylish?
Chic specifically implies elegant, effortless fashionability with a sense of sophistication. Stylish is a more general term that can describe anything fashionable, without necessarily implying that same effortless elegance.
What is the difference between chic and trendy?
Chic suggests a timeless, sophisticated elegance, while trendy refers to whatever is currently popular in fashion and may go out of style quickly.
Is chic a noun or an adjective?
Chic can be both. As an adjective it describes something elegant and fashionable, as in 'a chic outfit,' and as a noun it refers to stylishness or fashionable elegance itself.
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